Definition

Cushing's syndrome is a hormone disorder. Cortisol, in normal doses, helps the body manage stress and infection. However, these high levels over a long period of time can cause several health problems.

Causes

Cushing's syndrome is caused by extended exposure to a hormone called cortisol. Prolonged or excess exposure to cortisol may be caused by:

Long-term use of corticosteroid hormones such as cortisone or prednisone

Excess production of cortisol by:

Tumor or abnormality of the adrenal gland.

Tumor or abnormality of the pituitary gland. In the case of a
pituitary tumor,
it is called Cushing's disease

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